New drug and alcohol wellbeing network launched in West Sussex

A new drug and alcohol wellbeing network (DAWN) has been launched in West Sussex as part of a five-year partnership between the county council and a national charity Change Grow Live (CGL).

It will aim to provide support to all residents affected by drug and alcohol problems, their families and wider communities, focusing on all aspects of health and wellbeing.

DAWN will also specifically focus on advice and support to adults over 25 who may not have traditionally looked for support, including the elderly, residents who are geographically or socially isolated, people from minority communities, and people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender.

Another new element to the service is a network of recovery coaches and ‘community connectors,’ who will ensure a peer support is established across West Sussex, helping people build relationships in their community with housing, employment and training support.

To deliver this network of support, CGL is working closely in partnership with social and health care organisations in West Sussex, including Emerging Futures, Lloyds Pharmacy, Worthing Churches Homeless Project, St John Ambulance, Sussex Community NHS Trust, Ravenscourt, and the West Sussex Carers Support and Wellbeing Teams.

Service manager Ian Dunster said: “We are proud and excited to launch the new drug and alcohol wellbeing network in West Sussex, in partnership with so many local expert voluntary and statutory organisations.

“We welcome any suggestions for improved partnership working, co-location of services, promoting the new service and more via our westsussex.info@cgl.org.uk email.”

Christine Field, WSCC’s cabinet member for community wellbeing, said: “The new drug and alcohol wellbeing network is about moving beyond treating people and helping them recover and regain their lives.

“We are committed to working with our partners to provide swift professional help and support for those who need it, ensuring that West Sussex is a safe and healthy place for everyone to live in.”

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